How can you get eligible for Medi-Cal?

A:

Quick Answer

To receive Medi-Cal benefits you must satisfy the program's residency, income, age, disability and other eligibility requirements. Medi-Cal is a public health insurance initiative that provides healthcare benefits and services to qualified low-income residents of California.

Keep Learning

Before applying for Medi-Cal benefits, you must meet the program's residency requirements. The program is only offered to U.S. citizens who can provide proof of California residency for a minimum of 5 years. If you satisfy these baseline requirements, eligibility is automatically granted if you are a senior (65 years of age or older) or a child under 21.

Meet Medi-Cal's income requirements

Review the annual income requirements chart distributed by the California Department of Health Care Services to see if you qualify for benefits based on your annual income. The income threshold for both individuals and families is set at 138 percent of the federal poverty level. As of 2015, eligibility is granted to individuals whose annual income does not exceed $16,105. The income limit increases in proportion to a family's size, so be sure to contact the California Department of Health Care Services to affirm your eligibility.

Review other eligibility requirements

In addition to residency, age and income, eligibility is also granted to individuals and families that meet certain guidelines. Check the department's website to review these guidelines, which include automatic admission for the blind, the disabled, pregnant women and women who have survived breast or cervical cancer.Eligibility is also granted to those receiving benefits from CalWorks, Social Security or the State Supplemental Program.